Save the date for Friday fireworks fun

New Brighton’s fireworks celebration will light up the sky on a more family friendly Friday night.

The Treetech Fireworks Spectacular this year will be held on Friday 2 November at New Brighton Pier rather than the traditional Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November.

“Anthems of Rock” will set the scene for an explosion of colour across the night sky from 9pm.

A new date has been set for the New Brighton fireworks.

Christchurch City Council Events and Arts Manager Karena Finnie says the move to Friday night follows demand for a more accessible display, away from the pressures of a regular school night.

“People want to enjoy a free, family night without having to rush home after the event because of school commitments the next day,” Ms Finnie says.

“We are also creating a more sustainable event and such changes will enhance the experience.

“By hosting the fireworks on a Friday night, families and friends can take their time to enjoy New Brighton and perhaps have dinner near the pier or in the mall while also supporting the local community,” she says.

Twenty extra food vendors will be scattered along the mall and near the beachfront in the two main car parks.

“It’s a wonderful way to start the weekend with a stunning display of light and sound in one of our most re-energised areas of the city,” Ms Finnie says.

“Our sponsor, Treetech, is also celebrating 10 years of event support.”

Plans are under way to ease traffic pressures by prioritising bus access and reviewing options for a “park and ride” service.

“We hope everyone will make the most of public transport to support effective and efficient travel in and out of the event area,” Ms Finnie says.

Several roads will be closed from 6pm to allow for the thousands of people expected to crowd into the foreshore area.

Parking restrictions will also be in force, with signage installed the day prior to the event.

New Brighton Pier will be closed from 7am on Friday until 2am on Saturday.

In the event of bad weather, the Treetech Fireworks Spectacular will be held on Saturday, 3 November. Parking and public transport information will be provided on the Council Events website.